Trek Madone 2.5 C

2014

Product Details

2014 Trek Madone 2.5 C

Dominate the local criterium or take to the open road with Trek's Madone 2.5. Built with their super-aerodynamic KVF aluminum tubes, the 2.5 C smooths the air from the tip to tail to effortlessly turn pedal power into speed and save energy. Up front, Trek's E2 tapered carbon fork makes the steering stable and predictable so you can slice through corners with pinpoint precision. Meanwhile, Trek's H2 geometry is dialed for all-day comfort with a slightly higher handlebar position. You'll also love the light, nimble Bontrager Race wheels, the excellent Shimano Ultegra compact drivetrain with super-easy gearing for conquering the climbs, and the quality brakes for speed control. On top of all this, the Madone's speed comes with versatility too; you get discreet rack and fender mounts that let you load up for commuting, wet weather and off-season training rides.

This bike is awesome! Owned it since April and put about 1500 miles on it. I chose the aluminum bike to keep the cost down and yet experience some of the greatest drivetrain features out there today. I'm glad I did. The frame is aluminum, which means it is stiff and less compliant than carbon, but the geometry is borrowed from the proven Madone line to make it quite comfortable. This of course depends on how much attention is given to the fitting. I set myself up incorrectly at first. Now after having a professional fit session, I'm faster and getting stronger (according to Strava). Another pro of the frame is its stiffness. While climbing out of the saddle, it is very responsive and stiff, meaning the power of the rider is put to the pavement. The tapered headtube is very stiff as well, increasing the feeling of stability at speed and in the sprints. With today's manufacturing processes, this aluminum frame is comparable to many low-level carbon frames. The metallic red is a gear color too. Another pro of getting this aluminum Madone is the increased quality of the componentry. That's where this bike shines. The new Shimano Ultegra 11 speed is buttery-smooth, especially the front derailleur. The new design increases leverage, resulting in smoother, more precise shifting. In addition, the shifters are redesigned and they are way better than previously proven models. The brake lever pivot was moved closer to the cable anchor which increases leverge while braking from the hoods, the lever was redesigned for better ergonomics, and the body of the hood is so comfortable! The brakes are powerful and the brake lever reach is adjustable for different sized hands. The choice of 11 speeds means a more natural progression across the gear range, making it easy to find just the right gear for the effort. The wheels are smooth, stiff, and strong. The one component that I needed changed out was the saddle. For my body type, the stock saddle had too much cushion. With such an individual item, determine with your fitting professional what might be right for your body type. I am 5'8" weigh 135 lbs and ride a 54cm. This bike weighed about 18 lbs. Not the lightest ride available, but the price tag is much easier on the wallet.